Cyprus and France have embarked on a significant upgrade of the Mari Naval Base, aimed at ensuring a permanent French military presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. This strategic initiative was formalised through a Strategic Declaration and an accompanying Action Plan for 2026–2030, signed during a visit by President Nikos Christodoulides to Paris.
Mari naval: Strengthening Defence and Security Collaboration
The primary focus of the agreement is on Defence and Security, encompassing two main elements: the enhancement of the Mari Naval Base and a substantial defence procurement deal. The upgraded facility will be capable of hosting large French warships, marking a pivotal expansion of military cooperation between the two nations.
Major Defence Procurement Deal
As part of the agreement, the French military industry will fulfil 85% of the defence equipment requested by Cyprus under the SAFE programme. This procurement is not merely a transaction; it mandates the involvement of Cypriot companies, stipulating a 15% share in the production of each programme. This provision is expected to result in significant knowledge transfer, bolstering the capabilities of the Cypriot National Guard, particularly in aerial assets and communications systems.
A Comprehensive Roadmap for Cooperation
Beyond military enhancements, the Strategic Declaration outlines a broad framework for collaboration across sixteen sectors. This shift from declarations to actionable policies is designed to foster a deeper partnership between Cyprus and France.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Schengen Representation: France will represent Cyprus in 25 third countries, providing consular services related to Schengen visa issuance once Cyprus achieves full Schengen Area accession.
- IMEC Corridor: The agreement highlights cooperation in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), recognising Cyprus as a vital hub that contributes to regional stability and interconnectivity.
- Investment Opportunities: During the governmental meetings, a French company showed interest in making significant investments at Larnaca port, indicating potential economic benefits for Cyprus.
- Sectoral Collaborations: The agreement also encompasses areas such as Civil Protection, Digital Policy, Public Health, Maritime Affairs, and Energy, including workshops on integrating renewable energy sources into national grids.
Monitoring and Implementation
The implementation of the Strategic Declaration and Action Plan will be overseen through annual high-level intergovernmental meetings involving senior officials from the two Foreign Ministries, as well as biennial meetings at the Ministerial level. This structured approach aims to ensure that the initiatives outlined in the agreement are effectively realised and managed.
Long-Term Implications for Regional Stability
The upgrade of the Mari Naval Base and the broader agreement signify a pivotal moment in the defence posture of Cyprus and France in the Eastern Mediterranean. By reinforcing military capabilities and enhancing bilateral cooperation, both nations are taking proactive steps towards ensuring regional security and stability.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, this partnership may play a crucial role in addressing emerging challenges and fostering a collaborative approach to defence and security in a region of strategic importance.
